Great news. You've been offered an interview for that dream job. However, just thinking about sitting down in front of your potential employers is bringing you out in a cold sweat. Don't worry, you're not alone, the vast majority of us get nervous before a job interview, but there is no reason why it should affect your chances of the landing the position. 

Here a few tips for how you can overcome the post-interview jitters and have the best chance of getting that job. 

Be prepared

Nothing breeds confidence like good preparation. You're far more likely to be nervous going into an interview if you haven't done your research and don't feel ready for whatever questions the interviewers are going to throw at you. Preparation isn't just about the interview itself, you also need to think about things from a logistical point of view. Plan your journey to make sure you arrive in time, as being late will only increase your nerves. If you can, try to find out who you'll be speaking to in advance, this way they'll seem less daunting when meeting them face to face. You can learn more about how to prepare for an interview by watching our video.

Try to relax

If you're well prepared, there is no need to spend every waking minute worrying about the interview. Once your preparation is done, try to unwind and do something that helps you calm down. For example, while travelling to the interview you can listen to music or read a book. Make sure you get a good night's sleep ahead of the big day and set yourself up with a good breakfast. This will all help you stay calm and keep on top of those nerves.

Think positive

If you go into the interview with a negative mindset, you're far more likely to come out of it with a negative result. Focusing on the positive will help you control your nerves. Think about what makes your right for the job on offer and try to put this across during the interview. It might sound cheesy, but it's amazing what positive thinking can do and you'll find the whole process far less daunting if you try to stay optimistic and upbeat.

Be confident

As well as thinking positively, it's importance to act in a confident manner too. You don't have to walk into the interview room boasting about how brilliant you are, but it's vital to seem self assured and confident in your own ability. After all, if you don't look confident in yourself, why should a potential employer be?

Interviewers know that people get nervous and won't judge you because of this. However, it is important not to let your nerves overwhelm you. Try and project a confident image by smiling, offering a firm handshake, sitting up straight and meeting the eye of the people you are talking to. Acting confidently can help to calm some of your nerves and make you feel more relaxed. It's incredibly cliched, but being yourself will also help you get the better of the jitters. You're much more likely to feel uneasy if you're trying to act and speak in a way that isn't natural.

Take time to unwind

Once your interview is over, it's important to take some time to relax and unwind. If things didn't go as well as you'd hoped, don't dwell on it, just try to think about what you could do better do next time. Remember, whether you get the job or not, you'll still have gained valuable interview experience that can help you in the future.

The interviewer should let you know when you can expect to hear back from them; if they don't, make sure to ask them at the end of the interview. Should the specified period pass and you still haven't heard back, don't be afraid to get in touch and find out. If the interviewer is still deciding between you and another candidate, this could be enough to swing things in your favour. Even if you haven't got the job, this can still be used an opportunity to receive some useful feedback.